Screening of in vitro cytotoxicity by the adhesive film test

A novel procedure, the adhesive film test, is proposed as a screening method to predict potential cytotoxicity of biomaterials. This in vitro test utilizes a sterile strip of acrylate-based medical adhesive as an anchorage substrate in cytotoxicity studies. The adhesive film allows direct fixation of test samples to the base of the petri dish, ensuring close contact between sample and cells. The test is based on the principle that toxic components present in the test material will readily leach out into the culture medium and adversely affect the local cell population. The main advantage of the adhesive film test is that a viable cell population can be added directly to the test plate and after an incubation period of 24 h, the cellular response can be recorded as either cytotoxic or cytocompatible. Microscopic examination can be followed by quantifying the results using a micrometer to measure cellular attachment areas, migration distances and zones of inhibition. In addition, the adhesive film used to attach the test samples is shown to support extensive fibroblast growth and attachment to its surface and hence can also function as a negative nontoxic control in cytotoxicity studies.